MLB-backed pro softball league opens play with a bang

Field Level Media|published: Sat 7th June, 21:21 2025

May 11, 2023; Fayetteville, AK, USA; Kentucky Wildcats infielder Erin Coffel (21) makes a catch during the rain delayed first round game against the Florida Gators in the SEC Softball Tournament. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images

Erin Coffel delivered a two-run triple in the third inning to help the Bandits post a 3-1 victory over the Talons on Saturday in the inaugural day of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League.

Sierra Sacco of the Talons belted the first homer in league history in the contest played in Rosemont, Ill.

Major League Baseball recently announced a partnership with the AUSL and committed to support all levels of softball. Former Miami Marlins general manager Kim Ng is the commissioner of the league.

Four traveling teams are each playing a 24-game season in June and July. The league will end with a best-of-three championship series July 26-28. Ten different cities will host games.

The Blaze and Volts are playing Saturday night at Wichita, Kan.

Softball legends Jennie Finch, Jessica Mendoza and Natasha Watley threw out ceremonial first pitches before the Bandits-Talons game.

Coffel's triple to right center turned a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 lead for the Bandits.

"What we're creating right now is something super special," Coffel said afterward. "I think we're creating a real culture and environment to play softball in."

--Field Level Media